FIFA investigates on-pitch brawl after Spain vs Argentina World Cup final

FIFA has announced it is investigating an on-pitch brawl between Argentine and Spanish players at the conclusion of their World Cup final in New Jersey, USA, where European champions Spain defeated South American champions Argentina 1-0.

The global football governing body confirmed the probe on Monday, stating its disciplinary committee is assessing match reports of the multi-player melee that marred the end of a heated extra-time match.

“FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents,” FIFA told Al Jazeera. A report on the findings will be shared once completed.

Spain’s celebrations after winning their second world title were overshadowed by the brawl, which seemed inevitable given the flared tempers. When the referee blew the final whistle, several players fell to the ground in joy or heartbreak, while others engaged in an ugly fight.

A viral video shows Spanish star Lamine Yamal kneeling and raising his hands in prayer while multiple fights break out in the background, with Argentine players physically attacking their Spanish opponents. Argentina defender Leandro Paredes shoved Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat, and when Spanish substitute Gavi intervened, Paredes pushed him to the ground.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni rushed to separate Paredes, but the number five continued pushing Spanish players until a teammate pulled him back. Although some players greeted each other after the match – notably a warm embrace between Yamal and Argentine captain Lionel Messi – the overall atmosphere remained bitter.

Spain’s players formed a guard of honour for the runners-up, applauding as Argentina walked up to receive their silver medals. However, Argentina did not reciprocate and turned their backs on the new champions as they received gold medals and the trophy.

It is unclear when FIFA’s probe will conclude or if any action will be taken against the players. Earlier, FIFA said it was investigating Argentine players for displaying a political banner after their semifinal win over England, violating the stadium code of conduct and sparking a row in the UK over Falkland Islands sovereignty.